Lewis Askey nearly secured his first professional victory. The young British cyclist put on a strong performance during Paris-Tours on Sunday, joining the breakaway and then holding on solo for almost 40 kilometers. However, with the valuable assistance of Olivier Le Gac in a group of escapees with five riders, the young rider from Groupama-FDJ ultimately lost the sprint to the relatively unknown Riley Sheehan (Israel-Premier Tech). This was enough to frustrate him as he continues to chase his first victory, even after two seasons at the highest level.
“It was a very enjoyable day. I love these races.”
“I felt good today,” the British cyclist revealed after the finish. “The plan was to be at the front. I went solo early on, but Olivier (Le Gac) came back, and I managed to recover in the end. The sprint was planned for 500m, and we had to make a big effort. I was a bit boxed in, had to brake, and start again.”
“I messed up tactically. Even though I still had cramps in the final, my legs were strong enough to win the sprint. It’s my fault. But it was a very good day. I like these races. It’s why I race,” concluded Lewis Askey, who will have to wait until 2024 to finally raise his arms in victory.
Watch the finish: